The death toll from the twin earthquakes in Venezuela has reached 920, as confirmed by National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez. The earthquakes, with magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, struck within seconds of each other earlier this week near the town of Moron, causing widespread devastation. Rescue efforts have led to the discovery of at least 2,980 injured individuals, with many more still unaccounted for.
The coastal state of La Guaira, north of Caracas, has been severely impacted, with Acting President Delcy Rodriguez declaring it a disaster zone. Significant infrastructure damage has been reported, with 346 buildings, including hospitals and the Red Cross headquarters, either damaged or destroyed. The Simon Bolivar International Airport in Caracas has also been shut down due to structural concerns.
International rescue teams from countries like the United States, Mexico, Spain, and El Salvador have arrived to assist in the ongoing rescue operations. The US Treasury Department has temporarily lifted sanctions to aid in relief efforts, a move appreciated by Acting President Rodriguez. Despite current efforts, authorities warn that the death toll may rise further as rescue operations continue in the affected areas.
